Toronto Star Public Editor on the word ‘Queer’

Toronto Star public editor Kathy English asked readers if “queer” is considered “an offensive word when used as a collective label for the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender) community” and outlined the newspaper’s style on using the word queer.

According to English, the newspaper doesn’t have a “clear policy” on the word, but has used it frequently and even used to have a “biweekly column called ‘Queer Culture.'” However, she wrote that “even the gay press faces challenges” in avoiding offense and that ” even when no offence is intended, someone is always going to take offence.”